About

The word piezoelectricity means electricity resulting from pressure. It is derived from the Greek word πιέζειν; piezein, which means to squeeze or press, and ἤλεκτρον ēlektron, which means amber, an ancient source of electric charge. The phenomenon was discovered by the Curie brothers, Pierre and Jacques, in 1880. Piezoelectric materials can convert mechanical energy into electrical energy and vice versa. This property has various practical applications, such as in piezoelectric sensors, actuators, transducers, and energy harvesting devices. They are used in a wide range of fields, including automotive technology, medical imaging, industrial manufacturing, and consumer electronics. The piezoelectric effect arises from the asymmetrical arrangement of atoms or molecules in the crystal structure of certain materials. When a mechanical force is applied, it causes a displacement of the charges within the material, creating an electric field and generating an electric voltage. Conversely, applying an electric field to a piezoelectric material causes a change in its shape or mechanical deformation. Piezoelectric materials exhibit several desirable properties, such as high sensitivity, fast response times, and the ability to operate under harsh conditions. They can be tailored to specific applications by choosing the appropriate material and crystal orientation. Some commonly used piezoelectric materials include quartz, lead zirconate titanate (PZT), and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF). Research in the field of piezoelectricity continues to evolve, with ongoing efforts to develop new materials, improve energy efficiency, and explore novel applications. The understanding and utilization of piezoelectricity have significantly advanced various technological fields, contributing to numerous innovations and advancements in modern society.